A CLASH between Humza Yousaf and the Orange Order's Grand Master has been revealed by official papers.
The Justice Secretary and Jim McHarg rowed over the far-right demonstrations that took place in Glasgow's George Square last month, following widespread debate over statues.
Yousaf reportedly asked McHarg to condemn the behaviour of the crowds.
But the Orange Order leader refused, claiming he had not seen evidence of any racism.
READ MORE: WATCH: Loyalist demonstrators clash with police in George Square
The Loyalist Defence League had urged people to gather in the square to “defend” statues and monuments during events planned by asylum seekers and anti-racism campaigners.
Yousaf tweeted at the time: “Let’s not mince our words, this has nothing to do with statues and everything to do with racist thuggery.”
McHarg had told the Daily Record that he did not agree with claims of racism.
He later commented: “I will not be condemning any of those who are trying to do their patriotic duty in defending these statues because they believe in this nation."
The two then had a phone call about the protests, reportedly beginning with the Justice Secretary complaining that McHarg had spoken to the press ahead of the discussion.
He also said that he didn't accept accusations from the Orange Order that the Scottish Government had been "crushing Protestant protests" for "political reasons".
READ MORE: Orange Order leader and Humza Yousaf meet for crisis talks
The papers said McHarg's "clear view" was that all demonstrations should be banned during the coronavirus pandemic, and that he felt that criticism for gatherings had been "one-sided" against those seeking to protect statues.
Yousaf then explained that his criticism had been focused on the behaviours of individuals involved, and so his "key" issue had been the fact that people had been using the gatherings to express "racist and other offensive views".
It continued: “The Cabinet Secretary noted that he had not seen any evidence that those involved in the protection of statues had been members of the Orange Order, but the evidence had indicated that this group included individuals who claimed some affiliation to Loyalism as well as those involved in far-right politics and high risk football supporters.
"The Cabinet Secretary invited the Grand Master to similarly criticise such behaviour which was racist, unlawful and discredited those participating.
"This invitation was not accepted.
“The Grand Master told the Cabinet Secretary that he had not seen any evidence of racism during the disorder that had taken place that week.
“In conclusion it was agreed that the Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Grand Master had strongly differing views on recent events.”
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